The glass block is a unique architectural element which is compliant with the National Construction Code (NCC) fire-rating requirements and offers solutions for increased natural light, privacy, security and insulation.

Glass blocks and fire-rating

A glass block panel installed in a wall or floor is able to prevent the spread of flames and smoke for a period of 60 minutes or longer depending on the glass block used. To see our range of fire rating glass blocks, head to our fire rated glass blocks page.

Fire resistance classification
1530.4-1997 & 1530.4-2005

Fr 60/60-
Integrity only
Prevents spread of smoke and fire for 60 minutes

Fr 90/90-
Integrity only
Prevents spread of smoke and fire for 90 minutes

Residential buildings

The NCC requires 60 minute fire-rating for external walls and windows less than 900mm from a boundary

In a number of states windows within 3 metres of a brush fence must be fire- rated

If there are multiple buildings on the same property, an external wall less than 1800mm from the next building is required to be constructed with fire-rated materials.

Commercial buildings

The various classes of commercial buildings require different levels of fire-rating. The maximum achievable fire-rating for glass blocks in vertical walls is 90/90/90

For horizontal structures such as floor paving, the maximum achievable fire-rating for glass blocks is 120/120/90

Fire resistance level (FRL)

The FRL consists of 3 ratings in minutes: structural adequacy/integrity/insulation.

Structural adequacy – the ability of the structure to withstand collapse within the prescribed period

Integrity – the ability to resist the passage of flames and smoke

Insulation – the ability of the surface not exposed to the fire to maintain a temperature below the limits specified in AS 1530.4

The NCC states that windows or glass panels in the above external walls are required to be protected with a fire resistance level of –/60/– i.e. the ability to resist the passage of flames and smoke for 60 minutes.